For many, pregnancy is a joyful and exciting time. No one ever expects to hear that their baby has died before birth. Having to break this heartbreaking news is by far one of the most challenging aspects of your job. Take a moment to collect yourself, go slow, and always remember to be sensitive and empathetic.
Delivering the NewsYou cannot take the pain or grief away regardless of what you do, but you can be supportive of the birthing person, partner, and family’s feelings.
Be mindful that the parents may view the birth of their baby as both tragic and joyful. Stillbirth is still a birth and they are still parents.
Following the recommendations published by The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) can assist you in offering evidence-based options for evaluation to the birthing person/parents.
Evaluation of StillbirthThe postpartum visit is an opportunity to assess the physical and emotional healing of the birthing person. There are important steps to take prior to and during the postpartum visit to ensure compassionate communication by you and your staff.
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The authors acknowledge that parents relate to a spectrum of diverse gender identities and that birthing people may not identify as women or mothers. In addition, the term “parents” may not accurately reflect each family’s unique identity. Attempts were made to use gender-inclusive and inclusive parenting language in the materials found on this website. In some instances, however, in an effort to be succinct, terms like “mother” (and related pronouns “she” and “her”) have been used.